How to leave a legacy

“I thought I would go blind almost immediately – I thought it would be within a week. Eye research is the answer and that’s why I support Fight for Sight.” Maureen Hart, who has glaucoma

Why make a will?

An up to date will is the only way to make sure your wishes are followed when you die. Dying without a will may mean the decision of how to divide your estate will be made on your behalf and those you did intend to benefit, such as friends, family or charitable causes will miss out. With the help of a qualified professional it is simple and affordable to have a will properly drafted.

Making your will

What kind of gift can I leave?

There are various types of gift you can leave in your will. Your solicitor or professional will writer will be able to give you more detailed advice. Remember, a gift made in this way to a registered charity is exempt from Inheritance Tax.

The most common types of gift are residuary and pecuniary gifts of money. You may choose to take the following suggested wording with you when visiting a solicitor or professional will writer.

Residuary gift(a share of your estate)I give _____ % of the residue of my real and personal estate to Fight for Sight (Registered Charity No. 1111438) of 18 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AA and the receipt of the authorised officer shall be a complete discharge to my executors.

Pecuniary gift(a set sum of money)I give the sum of £ _______ to Fight for Sight (Registered Charity No. 1111438) of 18 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AA and the receipt of the authorised officer shall be a complete discharge to my executors.

Changing your will

What if I already have a will?

It is important that you regularly review your will, especially if there have been any significant changes in your life. For example, is there anyone you wish to add, such as a new family member or a charitable cause?

If you need to make changes you may not need to make a new will. To include a gift to Fight for Sight you can add a Codicil. This need not change the terms of your current will but can simply be used to add a new instruction, which should be kept with your will. Your professional adviser will be able to help you with this.